1987 Audi 80 vs. 2006 Mazda RX-8
To start off, 2006 Mazda RX-8 is newer by 19 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1987 Audi 80. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1987 Audi 80 would be higher. At 1,595 cc (4 cylinders), 1987 Audi 80 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (190 HP @ 7000 RPM) has 116 more horse power than 1987 Audi 80. (74 HP @ 5200 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2006 Mazda RX-8 should accelerate faster than 1987 Audi 80. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2006 Mazda RX-8 weights approximately 400 kg more than 1987 Audi 80. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.
Because 2006 Mazda RX-8 is rear wheel drive (RWD), it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, it will be much easier to do with 2006 Mazda RX-8. However, in wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 1987 Audi 80, being front wheel drive (FWD), will offer much better control with better grip. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2006 Mazda RX-8 (220 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 100 more torque (in Nm) than 1987 Audi 80. (120 Nm @ 2500 RPM). This means 2006 Mazda RX-8 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1987 Audi 80.
Compare all specifications:
| 1987 Audi 80 | 2006 Mazda RX-8 | |
| Make | Audi | Mazda |
| Model | 80 | RX-8 |
| Year Released | 1987 | 2006 |
| Engine Position | Front | Front |
| Engine Size | 1595 cc | 1308 cc |
| Engine Type | in-line | dual-disk rotary |
| Horse Power | 74 HP | 190 HP |
| Engine RPM | 5200 RPM | 7000 RPM |
| Torque | 120 Nm | 220 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 2500 RPM | 5000 RPM |
| Fuel Type | Gasoline | Gasoline - Premium |
| Drive Type | Front | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 5 seats | 4 seats |
| Vehicle Weight | 1020 kg | 1420 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4400 mm | 4440 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1700 mm | 1780 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1400 mm | 1350 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2550 mm | 2710 mm |
